Australia-China Relations Institute
The Australia-China Relations Institute at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) exemplifies China’s efforts to shape public discourse in Australia, according to critics. Established in 2014 with A$2.8 million from Chinese entrepreneurs including Huang Xiangmo (黃向墨), questions persist about ACRI’s independence despite its claims of being “nonpartisan.” James Leibold of La Trobe University argues it produces “one-sided” materials while facilitating media tours transmitting “China’s voice” to Australian audiences. Former Foreign Minister Bob Carr was appointed as ACRI’s director, working “near full-time” according to UTS. The institute represents one facet of Beijing’s broader influence campaign in Australia, critics say, which includes direct political lobbying, media pressure, and economic leverage. This influence allegedly extends beyond academia, with Chinese officials reportedly organizing supportive rallies and attempting to suppress criticism—activities that prompted Australia’s 2018 overhaul of espionage laws prohibiting undisclosed foreign influence in politics.
